Charl Barnard from Centurion, put together one of the most complete performances of his season to win the 2025 North West Amateur Open Championship at Pecanwood Golf Club, cruising home by five shots after three days of confident, attacking golf.
The 21-year-old was in control from the start, shooting 67-64-68 for a 17-under 199 total. His second-round 64, which matched Liam McKenna’s tournament-low score from day one, gave him the cushion he needed going into the final round. From there, Barnard never looked like giving anyone a chance.
Defending champion Dian Kruger tried to make a move with a closing 65, but his 10-under 206 only got him as far as fourth place — Barnard was simply too far ahead.
The win moves Barnard from No. 80 to No. 66 on the AmateurGolf.com Rankings and caps what has been a remarkable, travel-heavy season. The 21-year-old has played 27 ranked events across Botswana, Argentina, Singapore, England, Scotland, Mauritius, and South Africa, collecting three wins — including earlier titles at the Gauteng North Open and South African Amateur Championship — along with 12 top-10 finishes.
For a player who has quietly built one of the strongest resumes in amateur golf this year, Pecanwood offered another reminder: Barnard doesn’t just contend; he closes.